Joe Pometto from Tips From A Lawyer understands that being hit with a DUI charge for the first time can be scary and confusing. In the video, he gives tips on what to expect with a first DUI. He starts by saying that most states have special diversion programs that result in no conviction for first-time DUI offenders. However, there shouldn’t be any prior criminal offenses for a case to qualify as a first DUI.
Typically, one gets two to three routine court dates. Before the final court date, several things usually happen.
One has to complete a drug/alcohol evaluation, which can vary depending on the state. If there are treatment recommendations, they become part of the terms and conditions of one’s probation.
One may also have to pay some court costs, which Joe says is $250 in Pennsylvania. On the final court date, one sees a judge. It’s when they enter the diversionary program and probation starts. Typically, the defendant has to plead guilty and say they accept responsibility.
After the court hearing, first-time DUI offenders go to the probation office to see a probation officer who will outline the terms and conditions of the probation. One will also have to take an alcohol highway safety course and pay fines ranging from $500 to $1,500. Offenders in the diversionary program can get a zero-day, 30-day, or 60-day license suspension. It can be up to a year for those who don’t get in. Joe finishes by saying that one likely won’t go to jail for a first DUI, but the help of a DUI defense attorney is valuable.
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